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Educating for Innovation Details

A New Kind of Classroom

By Katherine McGinnis
Thinking Challenge
Estimated time60 minutes
Sessions1
GradeGrade 5
View lesson details
Subjects
Engineering Math Science Writing Technology
Collaboration High

About this resource

Students will design a functional space that could be used for the dual purpose of both an art room and a gym. Students may draw the design or create a three-dimensional prototype of completing an open-ended challenge. Students should think about materials needed for both subjects, space required, storage space, as well as safety concerns. Students may test one another's designs and offer potential problems or obstacles with the space design. Older students can be given specific dimensions to constrain designs.

Modifications for All Learners: Younger students may build 3D prototypes if completing and open-ended challenge, or simply draw out a design. Oder students may draw a design and then use online technology to design the space. Students may also be given the option between drawing and online planning. Various tech tools may be used for online design (see example below). Provide verbal and written directions.

Curriculum & Standards

Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area

Engineering/Math/Critical Thinking/Problem-Solving

Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard

AASL Main Standard(s): 

V. EXPLORE Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection. C. Share - Learners engage with the learning community by: 2. Co-constructing innovative means of investigation. 3. Collaboratively identifying innovative solutions to a challenge or problem.

Related STEM Area: Technology, engineering, math, critical thinking & problem-solving. 

NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard: 

MS-ETS1-1. Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions. MS-ETS1-2. Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem. 

What students will do

  1. Students design a space that functions as both an art room and a gymnasium. 
  2. Students compare and contrast designs with classmates.
  3. Students participate in discussion with classmates. 

Students will experiment in the design process while reinventing a defined space. Students will problem-solve, alter designs based on critical feedback, and compare and contrast various designs.

Resources Needed

Note-taking materials (whiteboards, chalkboards, pencil, paper, graph-paper), rulers/straight edge. If completing an open-ended challenge allow students to make a prototype (suggested materials include modeling clay, blocks, glue, cardboard, etc.). Optional Tech: online design tool (example: https://www.spacedesigner3d.com/en/).

How learning is assessed

  1. Students have designed a space that functions as both an art room and gymnasium. 
  2. Students have compared their own design to classmate's designs. 
  3. Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.